How to Travel Between Anchorage and Seward, Alaska

Seward is a common starting or ending point for one-way Alaskan cruises.  However, to get there, you’ll need to fly into or out of Anchorage…about 120 miles away!  Thankfully there are several easy ways to get back and forth between Seward and Anchorage.

Train

One of the most popular ways to travel between Seward and Anchorage is by train.  Alaska Railroad’s Coastal Classic train service offers a 4 hour scenic trip between Anchorage and Seward.  They even have cars with glass domes so you can take in a 360 degree view of the incredible landscape.  These trains run daily during the main tourist season and are conveniently timed to correspond with tours and cruise ship departures.

Bus

Another convenient option is a bus transfer.  The Park Connection Seward Express offers a 2.5 hour direct transfer between Anchorage and Seward.  Along the way, drivers will narrate about the history of the surrounding area and keep an eye out for wildlife.  The Park Connection offers daily service.

If you’d like to make a few stops along the way, consider a transport/day tour combo such as the ones provided by Alaska Cruise Transportation which provide knowledgeable guides and opportunities to stop in places like the Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center, Exit Glacier, and the Turnagain Arm.  Make sure to check out each particular company’s schedule as these transportation tours often only run on days when cruise ships are in port.

Drive

If you have a larger group or want full freedom to explore on your own, it’s possible to secure a one-way vehicle rental between Anchorage and Seward. Driving yourself offers the opportunity make your own schedule so that you can stop at places that interest you and stay as long as you want.

Travelling between Anchorage and Whittier instead? Check out this (upcoming) blog post!